KUCHING: Upgrading and repair works for four community halls in the Batu Kawah constituency have been approved at an estimated cost of RM365,500 as part of efforts to ensure safe, comfortable and well-maintained venues for community activities.

According to a statement, the projects comprise Balai Raya Desa Wira Lot Lorong 20, Batu Kawa (Phase 2), Dewan Serbaguna Kampung Sinar Budi Baru, Batu Kawa (Phase 2), Dewan Kampung Sinar Budi Lama and Balai Raya Skim Penempatan Stapok, Batu Kawa (Phase 2).

Repair and upgrading works at Balai Raya Skim Penempatan Stapok are being carried out from 15 June until 14 September 2026 while works on the other three community halls are underway from 15 June until 14 October 2026.

In this regard, the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) recently handed over the contracts for the repair and upgrading works to the appointed contractors.

“The Batu Kawah constituency has numerous community halls which have long served as important gathering places for residents to foster interaction, cooperation and unity.

“However, some of these halls have deteriorated over the years due to prolonged use, with issues such as structural wear and corrosion affecting the buildings.

“Sarawak Deputy Premier and Batu Kawah Assemblyman Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian continues to prioritise the upgrading and repair of community halls in the Batu Kawah constituency to ensure these facilities continue to play a vital role in promoting nation unity and serving as venues for community activities and celebrations,” the statement said on Friday.

In the same statement, Datuk Amar Dr Sim underscored the importance of such facilities as essential assets that reinforce social cohesion and improve the wellbeing of residents.

He remains committed to continuously enhancing public infrastructure for the benefit of his constituents.

Previously, the Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government had also allocated funds for the upgrading of the Batu Kawa Chinese Association and Stapok Community Hall (Dewan Masyarakat Stapok), enabling the public to benefit from better and more comprehensive facilities. -UKASnews